I knew from early afternoon that it was going to be an absolutely beautiful evening for running.

As I set out, the sun was low, the sky was hazy and there was an ever so slight nip to the air. The streets were busy with cyclists, walkers and fellow runners (if I can be permitted to call myself that!) and I couldn't wait to get stuck in.

I suppose it comes from years of school and university, but for me, September is synonymous with new beginnings, planning, determination and motivation for the year ahead. For me, the start of September is most people's New Year's Eve.

I started off on my first 8 minute run with determination and the common sense to pace it. I deliberately ran a route which I had attempted to run before I began my C25K journey. Without music, structure or a plan, I had at that time decided to run for as long as I could before I felt I was going to pass out. It took me 6 minutes, and I had the marker where I stopped in mind tonight. I was about 100 metres short of that mark this time round; but although I was running slower, I ran for a longer period of time.

The 5 minute walk felt slightly excessive and I was keen to start the next 8 minute run. I'm not going to lie, it was tough. My calves burned and screamed at me to stop. I kept on going, pushed through the pain and there you have it, 2x8 minute runs!

After the 5 minute cool down, I still felt I had more to give so I pressed "next" on the shuffle and ran the whole way through Matchbox 20 "How far we've come". The lyrics "let's see how far we've come" accompanied with the upbeat tempo topped off a successful run, and were in keeping with my half-way point.

On another note, I spent much of last night, this morning and early afternoon glued to the TV watching the Paralympics. Without meaning to sound patronising or disingenuous, I am in utter awe of every single competitor for their determination, bravery and drive. I get so emotional when they win and it really puts my worry about W5R3 in perspective.

I hope this is a week filled with good runs, good feelings and learning experiences for everyone, happy running!

Don't worry about w5 r3, I did that this morning and have lived to tell the tale. It was absolutely fine, I did go slower than on my previous run but I didn't want to go to mad and then not finish. Can always work on speed later.